Sero Merlot Sangiovese 2008

Region
King Valley - The region has high continentality (warm days, cool nights).  Summer rainfall is common with tropical storm influence from the North which adds some humidity which is beneficial for wine quality.

Appearance
Deep red with a vibrant purple hue.

Bouquet
Complex fragrant fruit aroma with savoury black cherry characteristics.

Palate
Full flavoured wine with a soft entry and round mid palate. Rustic tannins give definition and moderate length. Bright fruit and supple spice elements give interest and intrigue.

Vintage Conditions
A cracking season in 2008, the King Valley experienced a warm growing season, finishing alittle earlier than usual. A welcomed relief from the disasterous  bushfire season of 2007.

Winemaking
Fruit is cold macerated for 3-4 days to enhance colour extraction and preservation of the distinctive varietal characters.  Fermentation takes place over 7-10 days, with temperatures reaching 35°C.  This warmer fermentation temperatures fix the vibrancy of colour and helps to give an element of ‘rusticity’ to the wines.
The resultant wines undergo micro-oxygenation in tank. This process replicates the softening effect of barrel maturation on the young wine, while avoiding the sensory contributions of oak which would diminish the fruit expression. Partial fermentation in older casks.

Wine Analysis
Alc/Vol : 13.5%   pH : 3.57   TA : 5.9 g/L

Cellaring
Drink now.

Suggested Cuisine
Hearty food – pasta or pizza just the ticket.

General Characteristics
Dry but soft      Medium Bodied